BELGIUM

Flanders

Comparability of qualification levels A first proposal contained a 10-level structure but –influenced by the discussion on the EQF – was reduced to an 8 levels structure described by two main categories of knowledge/skills and context/autonomy/responsibility = Act on the Qualification Structure
Use of learning outcomes in HE & CE The learning outcomes approach is not new to the Flemish education and training system (inspired by the Dutch System)
National legislation on EQF levels 5-8 It was acknowledged that while higher education institutes (universities and university colleges) have a ‘monopoly’ on the bachelor, master and doctorate titles, this does not rule out the parallel (at levels 6-8) placing of vocationally oriented qualifications. Several stakeholders from adult education institutions providing higher VET courses for adults asked explicitly for the placing of VET qualifications at levels 5 or 6. The 2009 Act underlines that the two main types of Flemish qualifications, professional and educational qualifications.
Level of implementation of NQF FQS 2009 Act is a systematic classification of recognized qualifications based on a generally adopted qualifications framework. The referencing report is expected to be prepared in 2010
Recognition of prior learning not mentioned
e-Learning implementation 10 EDEN members, no EADL members
Openness to virtual mobility WHO usage yes, some barriers reported

Wallonia

Comparability of qualification levels An 8 level structure will be applied, to a large extent reflecting the EQF descriptors.
Use of learning outcomes in HE & CE learning outcomes are integral to a range of recent and ongoing reforms
National legislation on EQF levels 5-8 The approval in May 2008 of a separate decree binding levels 6-8 to the bachelor, master and doctorate cycles of the EHEA confirmed this. Although still not formally expressed, a common view seems to be that levels 6-8 need to be opened up to non-academic qualifications, for example advanced vocational qualifications.
Level of implementation of NQF The work on an overarching NQF responding to the EQF was initiated by the joint government of the Belgian French Community in March 2006. It is expected that a referencing report will be presented to the EQF AG in 2010.
Recognition of prior learning not mentioned
e-Learning implementation 10 EDEN members, no EADL members
Openness to virtual mobility WHO usage yes, some barriers reported